Justification:
Given the impact of habitat loss within the range of this species, it is likely that M. griseorufus is currently in decline. Despite this threat, the species is still thought to be relatively common within its range. Based on these premises, M. griseorufusis listed as Least Concern. Further information on hybridization, population status, habitat loss, and threats may warrant listing this species in a more threatened category in the future.

This species is found in southern and southwestern Madagascar, where it ranges from Lamboharana south to the Toliara (= Tuléar) region, to the Beza-Mahafaly Special Reserve (south of the Onilahy River) in the south-east, and to Tsimanampetsotsa, Berenty, and Petriky in the extreme south (Mittermeier et al. 2008). It occurs from sea level to 250 m.

This is a relatively common species. Hybridization between M. griseorufus andM. murinus has been noted in southeastern Madagascar in two ecologically different contact zones. One hybrid zone is located in the transitional zone between dry spiny bush and humid littoral forests south of the southern tip of the Anosy Mountain Range west and east of Ankilivalo (S 25.112 E 46.689) (Gligor et al. 2009). The second hybrid zone is located in the western rainshadow of the Anosy Mountain Range where there is a mosaic of dry spiny bush and gallery forests. Most hybrids in this area have been observed at Mangatsiaka (S 24.9660 E 46.5574) (Hapke et al. 2011).

Microcebus griseorufus is found in spiny desert, dry thorn scrub, and gallery forest habitats. (Rasoazanabary 2004). It is sympatric with M. murinus at Beza-Mahafaly and in the Mikea Forest, whereas in Berenty it is found in spiny forest patches but not in the immediately adjacent gallery forest that is occupied by the former species. This species feeds mainly on gums during the dry season, in arid habitats, and during periods of drought. In the wet season and in more humid forests it feeds on fruits and gums in equal proportions. Flowers and arthropods are also part of its diet, especially in arid habitats and in the dry season. Mating takes place during the rainy season (normally between September and November). Gestation in one wild female lasted 52 days. Females usually raise only one litter per year, consisting of only one or two offspring, although up to three young have been reported. Alloparenting has been observed. Young males disperse. Home range size varies from 0.33 ha in the dry season to 0.55 ha in the wet season (Mittermeier et al. 2008 and references included therein).

This species is listed on Appendix I of CITES. It is known to occur in the Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, Beza Mahafaly Special Reserve, the Berenty Private Reserve (Mittermeier et al. 2008). It may be present as well in two other national parks (Isalo and Zombitse-Vohibasia), but this has yet to be confirmed. No specimens are reported in captivity at this time (ISIS 2009, I.J. Porton pers. commc 2010). Mahafaly Plateau is currently under review to be included in the Tsimanampetsotsa National Park.

In-Place Research, Monitoring and PlanningIn-Place Land/Water Protection and Management Conservation sites identified:Yes, over entire range Occur in at least one PA:YesIn-Place Species ManagementIn-Place Education Included in international legislation:Yes Subject to any international management/trade controls:Yes